Question 1

How do I find the size standard for my NAICS code?

Accepted Answer

SBA publishes the Small Business Size Standards table (13 CFR Part 121) listing size standards for every NAICS code. You can find it on SBA's website at sba.gov/size-standards or use SBA's Size Standards Tool. Each NAICS code has one size standard — either a revenue threshold or employee count. If you work under multiple NAICS codes, you must qualify as small under each code you certify to for a specific contract.

Question 2

What is an SBA size standard?

Accepted Answer

An SBA size standard defines the maximum size a business can be and still qualify as 'small' for federal contracting purposes under a specific NAICS code. Size standards are set by SBA and vary by industry — expressed either as average annual receipts (in millions) or number of employees. Qualifying as small is required to participate in set-aside programs including SDVOSB, 8(a), HUBZone, and WOSB.

Question 3

What if I work under multiple NAICS codes?

Accepted Answer

You may list multiple NAICS codes in SAM.gov, but for each contract, you must qualify as small under the specific NAICS code designated by the contracting officer. Your size is measured against the size standard for the contract's NAICS code, not your primary code. If you exceed the size standard for a particular NAICS code, you cannot bid as a small business on contracts under that code, even if you are small under others.

Question 4

Where can I find SBA's official size standards table?

Accepted Answer

SBA's size standards table is codified at 13 CFR Part 121 and published on SBA's website. You can access it at sba.gov/size-standards. SBA also provides an interactive Size Standards Tool where you can enter a NAICS code and get the applicable size standard. The table is updated periodically — check for the most current version when determining your small business status.

How do I find the size standard for my NAICS code?

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